by Kelly Yang
Flap Copy Description:
Mia Tang has a lot of secrets.
Number 1: She lives in a motel, not a big house. Every day, while her immigrant parents clean the rooms, ten-year-old Mia manages the front desk of the Calivista Motel and tends to its guests.
Number 2: Her parents hide immigrants. And if the mean motel owner, Mr. Yao, finds out they've been letting them stay in the empty rooms for free, the Tangs will be doomed.
Number 3: She wants to be a writer. But how can she when her mom thinks she should stick to math because English is not her first language?
It will take all of Mia's courage, kindness, and hard work to get through this year. Will she be able to hold on to her job, help the immigrants and guests, escape Mr. Yao, and go for her dreams?
My Thoughts:
Kelly Yang's debut middle grade novel, Front Desk, is a breakthrough book in children's literature. Never before have I read a more authentic and insightful novel for young readers. I wept as I learned details about the young protagonist's life in California - and back in China. (Loosely based on Ms. Yang's life.) However, it is also well-written, humorous, and a fantastic addition to the growing number of diverse books for young readers. I love it when I read a book that is not only a mirror, but a window for children of all backgrounds. Bravo, Kelly Yang! I highly recommend this award-winning novel to readers aged eight to twelve.
Click here to learn about the author, Kelly Yang.
